Minnesota is nicknamed the Land of 10,000 Lakes, but the official count is quite a bit higher, approaching 12,000 lakes. Not surprisingly, the state is a haven for fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing and several other water sports. Minnesota boasts more than 50 state parks, which offer lake activities, as well as historic sites, forests and an abundance of wildlife. Vistors to St. Cloud will find a number of state parks clustered in central Minnesota.
Lake Maria State Park is situated about 15 miles southeast of St. Cloud, in Silver Creek, Minnesota. The park sits in the middle of the \"Big Woods,\" a grove of oak, maple and basswood that remains standing in this region of state. It is home to the Blandings turtle, an endangered species that can be identified by the bright yellow markings on its shell. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of activities, including hiking, camping, backpacking and cross-country skiing. The park, which offers several small lakes and ponds, features a boardwalk that winds through marshlands and is open year-round for camping and outdoor recreation.
Lake Maria State Park?
11411 Clementa Avenue NW
Monticello, MN 55362-3054
763-878-2325
dnr.state.mn.us
Charles Lindbergh State Park sits on the banks of the Mississippi River, in a wooded area outside of Little Falls. It features hiking and cross-country ski trails, as well as picnic areas and campgrounds. The park preserves a historic stone water tower built by the Work Projects Administration (WPA) as well as the childhood home of Charles A. Lindbergh. The Lindbergh home, along with an adjacent museum, are open for tours. Other highlights are a campground, fishing in the Mississippi, canoe routes, prairie, and aspen, pine and oak forests. Visitors will find fishing and water craft services, as well as boat ramps to access lakes and rivers. The park is open year-round and the park campgrounds are open during the summer months.
Lindbergh State Park?
1615 Lindbergh Drive South
Little Falls, MN? 56345
320-616-2525?
dnr.state.mn.us
Sibley State Park is located in New London, a small town about a half-hour from St. Cloud. The park has a varied geography, including forests, prairie, lakes and sandy beaches. Visitors will find a range of outdoor activities, from hiking Mount Tom to sunbathing on the shores of Swan Lake. The park features several canoe routes that allow adventurers to travel from lake to lake. It is also home to rustic style stone structures originally constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s, which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Other attractions include campgrounds, horseback riding, picnic areas and interpretive programs. The park is open throughout the year.
Sibley State Park
800 Sibley Park Road Northeast
New London, MN 56273
320-354-2055
dnr.state.mn.us
